Iskar-panega Geopark, UNESCO geopark in Lukovit Municipality, Bulgaria.
Iskar-Panega Geopark is a UNESCO-protected site with two distinct areas - the Karlukovo karst landscape and Panega Landscape Park. The region displays varied rock formations, underground caves, and river gorges shaped over long periods of time.
The site gained recognition in 2006 as Bulgaria's first geopark protected area. This designation helped local people earn income through responsible tourism while preserving the special landscapes.
The name comes from the two rivers that shape the region - the Iskar and the Panega. Visitors notice geological importance throughout the park, from displayed fossils to explanatory signs along the walking routes.
The park has an information center with maps and guides at the parking area. From there, marked trails with wooden bridges and stairs lead to the main natural sights and make exploring easy to navigate.
The park houses the Balkan Centre of Speleology, where specialists guide visitors into cave systems and geological structures. This specialized facility offers deeper insights into the underground world that visitors cannot easily find elsewhere.
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